ABSTRACT

Universities and Engagement is a timely and insightful book that examines what universities can contribute to their communities and economies through lifelong learning, a topic which is of increasing importance to Higher Education Institutions across the world.

The book will offer an answer to the question ‘What can be understood by University Lifelong Learning today?’ by collating the work of specialists from across Europe and beyond who have first-hand experience in the field of university engagement through continuing education. With a diverse range of expertise from the UK, Ireland, Germany, Finland, Malta, Belgium, New Zealand, Austria and the USA, readers are guaranteed a varied and informative collection of perspectives on this important topic.

Taken as a whole, the book provides a theoretical background for readers, drawing on recent research and practice examples from a variety of countries and institutional settings, as well as demonstrating a variety of conceptual approaches, confirming the diverse range of possible solutions. Key topics covered include:

    • research into policy and practice;
    • engaging with business and industry;
    • engaging with communities;
    • engaging with an ageing society;
    • active citizenship and regional competitiveness.

Developed in collaboration with the European University Continuing Education Network (EUCEN), Universities and Engagement is an invaluable contribution to research in the subject of lifelong learning. It will be of value to academics, practitioners and professionals with an interest in higher education and community management, and will be particularly suited to those interested in lifelong learning, adult education and community development.

chapter |10 pages

Introduction

chapter 2|13 pages

Research–practice partnership

Improving links between research and professional practice in lifelong learning

chapter 6|10 pages

Perceived service value

Implications for the viability of continuing education programmes

chapter 7|12 pages

Opening universities for lifelong learning and the challenge of diversity management

Support of non-traditional students in Germany, Finland and Denmark

chapter 8|12 pages

When university meets community in Later Life

Subverting hegemonic discourse and practices in higher education

chapter 9|13 pages

Types and conditions of service learning

Associations with civic responsibility, self-efficacy and well-being

chapter 10|11 pages

Community-based education and learning

chapter 12|12 pages

Learning in later life

What can universities do?

chapter 13|12 pages

Intergenerational learning at the university

Potentials and limitations

chapter 15|11 pages

Unlocking potential for later life learning

Engaging adults in their own learning in a university setting. A case study from Scotland

chapter 16|11 pages

Managing age diversity in companies

Transferring competences between generations at work – Project Génération+